This beach features swimming, surfing and picnicking. The beach has two miles of sandy beach, sand dunes, picnic sites, a parking lot, a snack bar and a beach-equipment rental shop. Bike trails connect other nearby beaches. The beach is the site for a number of special events, such as the triathlons, and volleyball tournaments. A 1,700-foot pier has a snack bar, restaurant and bait shop.

RECREATION

Swimming and surfing are popular pastimes. Seasoned surfers enjoy the wave action at Surfer’s Point and farther out on a reef known as “Outsides,” which is famous for its monster waves.

Fishing—Ventura Pier has been a favored spot for local anglers since its inception. At the ideal place to catch Pacific thresher shark, fishing enthusiasts also hook yellowtail, Pacific mackerel, white sea bass, halibut, corbina, or turbot. A sand

playground next to the pier keeps kids happy while their parents fish or sunbathe.

Picnicking—San Buenaventura features the largest day-use picnic area at a state beach in Southern California. Set back behind the dunes are picnic tables, barbecues, restrooms, and an equipment rental shop. One of the most popular picnicking opportunities is found at the Jolly Oyster in the day-use area. Families and oyster lovers from far and wide shuck raw, local, farm-fresh oysters and clams by the dozens.

Bicycling—For those who like to cycle with a water view, a paved hike and bike path runs from the park entrance past the Ventura Pier, along the Ventura River, and back along the beach to north Emma Wood State Beach. At the pier, a variety of bicycles can be rented to cycle along the beach and boardwalk, from mountain bikes to modern carriages — called surreys — complete with fringe on top.

Volleyball — Courts near the picnic area are popular for pick-up matches, youth camps, tournaments, and league play.

TRAIL USE
Bike Trails

DAY-USE ACTIVITIES & FACILITIES
Picnic Areas
Fishing
Scuba Diving/Snorkeling
Beach Area
Swimming
Windsurfing/Surfing
Geocaching